Shows & Happenings

Love, Forgiveness, and Filipino Values through Folk Songs

We may not be familiar with many folk songs but most if not all of them share a common theme: they talk about the traditional Filipino values of courtship, love, family, and forgiveness; values that are essential to the Filipino family.

It is through these values that the Filipino family remains strong in spite of the difficulties and sacrifices their loved ones may encounter. While there are some things that cannot be changed, forgiveness is the most important value for the family, as it is through forgiveness that helps strengthen relationships and the family.

Though some of us may no longer be familiar with these folk songs our mothers would sing to us when we were young, like Ilocandia, Si Filemon, and Sarong Banggi, these songs come to life, together with Sampaguita flowers, kites, and festivities, though a ballet performance in Ballet Philippines’ Sarong Banggi.

Featuring the interpretation of six choreographers to 15 classic folk songs, and arranged by maestro Ryan Cayabyab, Sarong Banggi aims to give life to traditional Filipino values through telling a story of two lovers who maintained their love for one another in spite of the trials they have endured in their lives. Fashion designer Rajo Laurel designed the costumes that made use of traditional materials and at the same time having a simple and straightforward design.

Rajo Laurel's costume sketches for Barong Sanggi characters Jun and Rose, children of Jose and Pilar.

The ballet performance explores on the traditional way of courtship, and the sacrifices and struggles we endure to make the relationship strong. In fact, all kinds of Filipinos, from housewives, blue and white collar workers, to OFWs, will be able to relate to the story of Jose and Pilar, and how their love for one another endured even the toughest times, to the point of forgiving one another for their shortcomings.

“Sarong Banggi will tug at the audience’s heartstrings with its nostalgic music and earnest look at traditional Filipino values,” said Ballet Philippines Artistic Director Paul Alexander Morales.

We may be living in the modern times, but our views on love and family is what makes us truly Filipino.

Ballet Philippines’ Sarong Banggi will be performed from October 16 (Gala Night) to 18 at CCP’s Main Theater (Tanghalang Nicanor Abelardo). For tickets and reservations, call the CCP Box Office at 832-3704 or Ticketworld at 891-9999.